The Vastness of Magical Destiny
Chapter 814: Volume 25 Paddling Against the Current - 1 Going Against the Wind_2

"It’s not a fool’s dream, is it?" Komer was also very calm.

"But I heard that Princess Renta is intending to marry you, isn’t she?" Zellin’s slightly aged head tilted a bit.

"Is that so? Well, it seems there are no facts yet." Komer wanted to deny it, but then thought there was no need to do so, as it would make him seem petty. Instead, he gave a vague response.

"Princess Renta is a beauty unmatched, and the Anson family’s influence is profound. Can you really overlook these factors? I don’t believe you can afford to give up all this." Zellin sneered slightly, his tone somewhat mocking.

"Haha, Duke, I know my own station. There are indeed many who oppose me, as Homer would, but there are just as many who like me. Besides, haven’t you noticed that I am just as free in the Caucasus without Homer? Perhaps right now, Ugru and Mattdam are not as developed as Cyprus and Odessa, but who dares to say that in three to five years, Ugru and Mattdam will not surpass Cyprus and Odessa?" Komer laughed, "Perhaps the Duke hasn’t had the chance to visit Ugru and Mattdam yet. I think if you have time to take a look, maybe your opinion would change."

Zellin had to admit that what the other party said was true. The changes in the Caucasus were no secret. Although Zellin had not witnessed them personally, news from all quarters confirmed the other party’s words. The large influx of immigrants from the North had rejuvenated the Caucasus, and the addition of Leon’s coal and iron resources along with the Half-Beastmen’s labor had significantly boosted the economy. In fact, Zellin himself was even more optimistic about the prospects of the Caucasus, especially after the other party had successfully controlled the barbarians, which made this advantage even more apparent.

"Do you mean you can give up Homer?" Zellin was not moved.

"Did I say that?" Komer counter-asked, "Does the Duke still think that Philip can make a comeback?"

Zellin shook his head; he was well aware that Philip no longer had any chances; otherwise, the Nirvana Knights would not have silently withdrawn.

"Then who does the Duke think can hold onto Homer? The Ferdinand Family or the Heine Family? I’m afraid even if I offered it to them, they wouldn’t dare to accept it. Perhaps they should spend a bit more energy on how to deal with the beastmen’s provocations." Komer’s arrogance gradually showed through his words.

Zellin finally felt the subtle aura of authority emanating from his counterpart. Komer, who now held territories in Homer, Caucasus, and even the Southern Flanders Territory, was no longer the humble rural noble he had been at Vero’s birthday banquet. Although his demeanor remained submissive, the firmness in his bones quietly revealed itself. Accurately speaking, he had already become a true Great Lord within the boundaries of the Kingdom of Nicosia, provided that the Kingdom of Nicosia still existed. In fact, Zellin was well aware that Komer’s influence in the Kingdom of Nicosia had long surpassed that of Katya and Hoffman, heirs of the Romanov family. Even he himself might be no match for Komer, which meant Katya and Hoffman had no choice but to act according to Komer’s wishes at this point.

Zellin was also clear about the marriage laws of the Continent. Matches based on equal social standing were a must-follow rule; Komer’s current status made him a suitable match for Vero. The issue was with Komer owning three territories and holding noble titles conferred by two different countries, bringing many uncertainties to his marital affairs. For political benefits, he was very likely to have multiple marriages, and this was precisely what concerned Zellin the most. As a noble lord, understanding Komer’s perspective, Zellin knew that choosing suitable multiple marriages would be more beneficial in Komer’s current situation, especially given his not so strong foundations. Whether it was the rumored alliance with the Romanov family or a marriage contract with Basarabia, these steps seemed essential for Komer to secure his position in Nicosia.

The problem was that this matter was intertwined with Vero, making it particularly problematic for Zellin.

Komer, without showing any emotions, scrutinized this Nicosia noble known for his cunning. Undoubtedly, Vero was his beloved jewel, and his care for her was not just pretense. But ultimately, Vero had to marry. If he could find a suitable husband who truly connected with her, he believed he could accept it. Komer also understood what the other was worried about, and at this time, he could not make promises that exceeded his own bottom line. He also believed that if the other truly considered Vero’s well-being, he should understand his difficulties.

"Komer," he said honestly, "I admire your capability and Vero is quite fond of you. I can feel your affection for her. It should be said that if you two could unite, it would be a very satisfactory marriage. However, I see ambition in your eyes; you won’t be satisfied with your current status; you have bigger appetites. Although I can’t ascertain what other schemes you might have, I am sure you won’t stop where you are. As you move forward, you will inevitably need more support—would you reject advantageous marriages? I mean other marriages."

Zellin remained silent for a long time before finally addressing the crux of their discussion. He frankly voiced his concerns, naturally hoping to elicit a clear response from Komer.

Komer’s calm gaze flickered; denying it would only make him seem less credible, and besides, denial wasn’t necessary, as this was an inevitable fact. Lying could cover things up temporarily but would damage his credibility. This was unacceptable.

"Duke, I appreciate your candor. I must admit that I find this issue difficult. I don’t want to hide anything. I have other ideas, and surely you wouldn’t have stopped at my age either?" Komer picked up his wine glass to mask the fluctuation in his emotions. The dangerous gleam in his eyes, however, allowed Zellin to perceive his current peril. "The beastmen have already pushed their troops deep into the kingdom’s hinterlands. We cannot know their next insane target. The higher-ups who support our mortal world are hiding in their shells, too fearful to venture out, content with mere survival. Meanwhile, the Church of Light is already unable to fulfill the responsibilities they once promised to our kingdom. I even suspect some among them are indulging and manipulating everything. They have tainted the reputation they once held as our mortal guardians. Now, I believe, only we can take up the responsibility to save ourselves. Thus, even if misunderstood, I will continue to walk my path alone."

Zellin’s heart trembled slightly. The formidable presence revealed in the other’s words made him feel breathless—such audacious arrogance, such domineering presence, such bold courage. Had he really aged, or was it the overwhelming stance of the other that oppressed his overly conservative mindset? Or was it a combination of both?

"Komer, are you suggesting that you will restore the lost reputation of the Romanov family?" Zellin asked instinctively—a question he knew was his most tactful way of inquiring, yet its implications were starkly exposed.

"Perhaps. Times change, and all I can say is that I will strive for my goals. I won’t yield to external pressures nor will I bother with trivial rumors; the path is always one’s own to forge," Komer swiftly composed himself, his expression easing into a faint smile. "Duke, please trust my feelings for Vero. I can promise that in every respect, she will always be the precious flower in the palm of my hand, and I will never let her suffer any distress." (To be continued. For further information, please visit WWW.QIDIAN.COM where the Chapters are updated frequently. Please support the author and authorized reading!)